Candida albicans: the current status regarding vaginal infections

Vaginal infections caused by Candida albicans are a significant global health concern due to their recurrence and negative impact on quality of life. This review examines the pathogenesis of C. albicans infections, emphasizing critical virulence factors such as biofilm formation, adherence, and phenotypic switching. Risk factors include immune system suppression, antibiotic use, and hormonal changes, all of which can lead to fungal overgrowth and infection. Current prevention and/or treatment strategies primarily rely on antifungal therapies, personal hygiene practices, and probiotics. However, challenges like antifungal resistance, recurrence, and limited treatment efficacy highlight the need for innovative approaches. Therefore, emerging methods such as novel antifungal agents, vaccines, and nanotechnology-based delivery systems offer promising advancements to improve infection control. Additionally, the immune system plays a key role in preventing C. albicans infections, with both innate and adaptive immunity acting to restrict fungal colonization and growth. Commercially available products, such as antifungal creams, vaginal probiotics, and hygiene solutions, are practical options but often lack long-term efficacy. Persistent challenges, including resistance, patient noncompliance, and restricted access to emerging therapies, hinder comprehensive prevention and treatment efforts. Thus, future research should focus on promoting interdisciplinary approaches, integrating personalized medicine, and enhancing healthcare accessibility. This review intends to present the current state of the art within the abovementioned issues and to enhance the understanding of the multifactorial nature of C. albicans infections and advanced prevention strategies, which are essential to reduce the burden of vaginal candidiasis worldwide and improve patient quality of life outcomes. KEY POINTS: • Candida albicans pathogenesis involves biofilms, adherence, and phenotypic switching. • Vaccines, nanotechnology, and new drugs offer improved prevention and treatment. • Addressing antifungal resistance and patient compliance is key for prevention success.